Effect of metal ions (Sn and Zn) on the thermal property of akaganeite nanorods

The electrical, optical, and adsorption properties of akaganeite (β-FeOOH) can be modified by doping or combining with variety of elements. We prepared metal ions (Sn, Zn) doped β-FeOOH using β-FeOOH nanorods as the precursor by the hydrothermal method and investigated the effect of metal ions (Sn, Zn) on the thermal property of β-FeOOH nanorods. The doping of metal ions (Sn, Zn) was confirmed by X-ray powder diffraction, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and atomic emission spectrometer analysis. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential thermal analysis showed that they have different thermal decomposition temperatures. β-FeOOH nanorods and Zn doped β-FeOOH nanorods were transformed into α-Fe2O3 particles at 400 °C. While Sn doped β-FeOOH nanorods should be heated to higher temperature (600 °C). Sn doped β-FeOOH nanorods showed higher thermal stability due to the Sn ions binding with the framework of β-FeOOH. Both Sn and Zn ions doped β-FeOOH remained the rod like shape.